Acne is a chronic condition that typically requires the use of multiple medications.1
Medication adherence is especially challenging for patients with chronic diseases and often
decreases over time, especially for those using topical medications.1 Nonadherence can result
in multiple negative effects including treatment failure, increased healthcare costs, and
decreased quality of life. Primary nonadherence refers to problems acquiring and starting
treatment. Challenges to this form of nonadherence include a lack of knowledge,
misunderstanding of usage, poor communication with provider, increased cost, and fear of side
effects.2 Secondary nonadherence refers to when the patient does not use the medication as
prescribed. Hurdles to secondary nonadherence include delayed results, increased complexity
of treatment plan, adverse effects, busy lifestyle, and inconvenience.2